An improved mouthguard material

Aust Dent J. 1997 Jun;42(3):189-91. doi: 10.1111/j.1834-7819.1997.tb00120.x.

Abstract

A modified mouthguard material which reduces transmitted forces is described. Tests showed that the inclusion of air cells in a 4 mm thick polyvinyl-acetate-polyethylene (EVA) copolymer reduced the effects of impacts of less than 10 kN when compared with a material of the same EVA composition and thickness. The EVA copolymer with air-inclusions is suitable for the construction of stock mouth-formed and vacuum-formed mouthguards. The improved elastic properties of the modified mouthguard material reduced transmitted forces by 32 per cent when compared with traditional EVA mouthguard polymers of the same thickness.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Air
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Biocompatible Materials* / chemistry
  • Elasticity
  • Equipment Design
  • Materials Testing
  • Mouth Protectors*
  • Polyethylenes* / chemistry
  • Polyvinyls* / chemistry
  • Stress, Mechanical
  • Surface Properties
  • Vacuum

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Polyethylenes
  • Polyvinyls
  • polyvinyl acetate